The sixth day of Volunteers’ Week 2023 is also #PowerOfYouth Day, so today’s Story features one of Falkirk’s dedicated young volunteers, Aaron!
Aaron was awarded Young Volunteer of the Year in the 2023 Falkirk Volunteer Awards, in recognition of his efforts. The CVS Falkirk and Volunteer Falkirk team visited Aaron at one of his volunteering roles to surprise him with his award; Aaron’s win was a complete surprise to him, as was the number of neighbours and friends who joined us on the day to celebrate his achievement.
(Image caption: Aaron (centre left) with his award, and friends and family, outside the Chest, Heart & Stroke Scotland shop.)
Power of Youth Day is an annual opportunity to say THANK YOU to all the young people working to make positive change in their communities every day – a chance to spotlight them and demonstrate the real commitment that organisations, and other individuals, have in empowering young people.
Aaron is a perfect example of the impact young people have. Having volunteered for around 6 years now, with support worker Oonagh at his side, he’s gained lots of different experiences through his different roles, both in a local Chest, Heart & Stroke Scotland (CHSS) shop, and at Newparks Farm (part of Muiravonside Country Park).
Aaron provides a friendly face at the shop, meeting and greeting customers, right through to the end of their visit when he rings them through the till. He also covers the stockroom, helping select donated items for display and putting them out. Here, Aaron encourages sustainability and sustainable consumption, through the shop’s reuse and recycling of donated goods
“He’s just so lovable, he loves helping,” Oonagh told us.
“I love volunteering here,” Aaron said when we spoke to him at CHSS’s community hub and shop. “I love the shop, and the farm, and I’ve made so many friends – with other people and animals!”
At the farm, Aaron feeds and grooms the animals, cleans out their areas – and of course gives them lots of cuddles (so would we!). He is also often asked to help out on the guided walks with the park staff; he enjoys telling the children about the animals and what he does to help around the farm. During these walks, he promotes animal welfare, helping others learn about the importance of treating animals with kindness and respect, raising awareness about animal welfare issues in the community.
Through his volunteering at the farm, Aaron has provided care and attention to animals who may have been neglected or abandoned before their arrival. Aaron’s efforts help improve the health and wellbeing of the animals, along with his own, and provide them with a better quality of life.
(Image caption: Aaron (right) with his mum Maureen (left), who nominated him.)
His mum Maureen told us:
“Both groups are special because of what they do for the communities, and Aaron loves to give something back for all the help and support he receives. He’s made a significant contribution to the organisations and community, and has done so with a high level of commitment, creativity, and teamwork.
“Aaron is keen to show his friends, peers and society in general that people with a learning disability have a value in this world. He wants to prove that he has skills that are worthy and make a difference. This helps his mental health and self esteem, and volunteering helps him do that.”
If Aaron and his dedication have inspired you (especially ahead of the school holidays!), why not check out the different volunteering opportunities available by contacting our team: info@volunteerfalkirk.org.uk
You can also browse through the different volunteering roles we have listed under “retail”, “nature” and “outdoors”!
